Common in broad-leaved, often damp, woodland, marshes, fens, heathland and gardens throughout the British Isles; frequently recorded and well distributed across much of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 29-37 mm. Easily distinguished from other superficially similar autumnal sallows by the distinctive purple head and patagium. Larva feeds on catkins of Sallow and Poplar, over-wintering as an egg